Marguerite Smithson Cannon

Marguerite Smithson Cannon, age 98, died peacefully September 1, 2026 surrounded by her family and loved ones. She was born March 28, 1928 in Cannon County, TN to Grady Smithson and Elizabeth Odom Smithson. She graduated from Woodbury High School and Tennessee Tech University. She then began her career with the US Agricultural Extension Service in Gainsboro, Cookeville and ultimately Franklin, working with students in the local schools. Upon moving to Franklin, she met her future husband Brown Cannon and began the life she loved so much on the family farm.

Her days included gardening on the family farm, tennis with friends, cooking for many and travel. She enjoyed a long and complete life exhibiting strength, humility and compassion. She was generous with her time to others, including cooking for Meals on Wheels and sewing baptism quilts at her church, Franklin First Methodist. Most of all, she enjoyed time spent with her family and the joyful laughter that always ensued.

She is survived by: her children Ed Cannon of Franklin and Mary Lee Schaefer & son-in-law Pat Schaefer of Memphis; her two granddaughters Emmy Porchivina (Matthew) of Memphis, TN and Sarah Braden (Christian) of Atlanta, GA; great-grandchildren Hew Porchivina and Lucie Braden; nephews Bob McCawley, Marc Tuley and Jim Quick; and nieces Eleanor Sikes, Madelyn Knecht and Sara Irick. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Brown Cannon, siblings Henrietta McCrary, Elna McCawley, Hazel Tuley, Christine Damico and Buck Smithson and sister-in-law Mary Quick.

The family is deeply indebted to her caregivers Jean, Bessie, Debra and Shamel for their devoted support and loving care during her final years in Memphis.

A private graveside service will take place at Mt. Hope Cemetery in Franklin, TN.

Memorial gifts may be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.